What is ABA Therapy?

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy is a scientific and evidence-based approach that helps people with autism learn and develop skills to improve and manage their behaviors. While anyone of any age can benefit from ABA therapy, it’s an excellent early intervention approach for kids with autism.

ABA therapy lets kids acquire skills they will use for the rest of their lives. Through ABA therapy, children with autism can learn to communicate and interact with others as they develop skills that help them become more independent.

Have more questions about what is ABA therapy? Please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Breakdown of ABA Therapy Components

Assessment

A comprehensive assessment is conducted to identify the individual's strengths, weaknesses, and specific needs. This assessment may involve direct observation, interviews with caregivers, and standardized assessments.

Goal Setting

Based on the assessment, goals are established to meet each individual child's unique needs. Goals are established with a collaborative approach, involving the caregivers and all providers involved.

Intervention Design

ABA therapists design individualized intervention plans tailored to the unique needs of the individual with ASD. These plans outline specific strategies and techniques to be used during therapy sessions.

Implementation

ABA techniques are implemented consistently during therapy sessions, typically conducted in structured one-on-one or small group settings. Therapists provide prompts, cues, and reinforcement to help the individual learn and practice new skills.

Data Collection & Analysis

Data on the individual's behavior and progress are systematically collected during therapy sessions. This data is used to monitor progress, make adjustments to the intervention plan as needed, and evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy.

Generalization & Maintenance

ABA therapy aims to promote the generalization of learned skills across different settings and situations and to ensure that these skills are maintained over time.

What is the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)?

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a specific type of ABA-based intervention designed for young children with or at risk for ASD, typically between the ages of 12 months and 5 years. ESDM builds upon the principles of ABA therapy by providing a developmentally focused, relationship-based approach to early intervention for young children with or at risk for ASD.

By integrating play, naturalistic learning opportunities, and strong parent involvement, our ESDM-trained therapists aim to promote optimal outcomes for children with ASD in the crucial early years of development.

How ESDM Enhances Traditional ABA Therapy

Focus on Early Intervention

ESDM emphasizes early intervention during the critical period of brain development in young children. By intervening early, ESDM aims to capitalize on the brain's plasticity and maximize the child's potential for learning and development.

Naturalistic & Play-Based Approach

ESDM incorporates naturalistic and play-based activities into sessions to make learning more engaging and enjoyable for children. Activities are designed to be developmentally appropriate and child-directed, promoting social interaction, communication, and cognitive skills in naturalistic settings.

Parent Involvement & Relationship Building

ESDM places a strong emphasis on involving parents and caregivers in the intervention process. Therapists work closely with families to teach them how to implement ESDM techniques at home and in everyday routines, fostering positive parent-child interactions and strengthening the parent-child relationship.

Comprehensive Curriculum

ESDM curriculum covers a wide range of developmental domains. The curriculum is tailored to each child's individual needs and is delivered through a combination of structured teaching activities and naturalistic learning opportunities.

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